Work-Life Balance

Work-Life Balance in Corpus Christi

Working to Live, Not Living to Work

Presented by Maria Graciano, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S, ASOTP
Director of Clinical Programs, Family Counseling Service

Work-life balance is something we hear about constantly. It shows up in conversations about burnout, stress, productivity, and family life. But what does it actually mean? And how do we create it in real, practical ways?

At Family Counseling Service, we recently hosted a webinar focused on strengthening work-life balance for city employees and community members. The conversation was honest, practical, and rooted in something we all experience: stress.

Let’s talk about what balance really looks like.

The Reality of Stress in Corpus Christi

A recent city-level report ranked Corpus Christi as the 7th most stressful city in the United States for workers Work-Life Balance.

That may feel surprising. We live in a coastal community with:

• An average commute of about 19–20 minutes compared to the national average of 26–28 minutes Work-Life Balance

• Over 220 sunny days per year Work-Life Balance

• Easy access to beaches and outdoor recreation Work-Life Balance

On paper, we have advantages many cities do not.

And yet, stress remains real.

This reminds us that work-life balance is not just about location. It is about how we manage pressure, relationships, expectations, and daily habits.

Where to Begin

If you are feeling overwhelmed, consider these three areas:

Skills

Are there skills you could strengthen that would make work easier?
Time management, communication, delegation, or technology skills can reduce daily stress significantly.

Trust

Work becomes stressful when trust is low.
If we do not trust our coworkers, or feel they do not trust us, tension rises. Clear communication and shared expectations build healthier environments.

Relationships

Relationships at work matter just as much as the work itself.
Positive professional connections increase resilience and job satisfaction.

Lifestyle Medicine and Sustainable Balance

Work-life balance is not just emotional, it is physical.

Research in lifestyle medicine highlights the importance of:

• Nutrient-dense, plant-forward nutrition

• Regular movement

• Consistent, quality sleep

• Stress management strategies

• Avoiding risky substances

• Meaningful social connection Work-Life Balance

These are not “extras.” They are foundations.

When our bodies are cared for, our minds respond with greater clarity and resilience.

Practical Stress Management Tools

You do not need to make drastic changes overnight. Start small.

• Take intentional breaks during the workday

• Step outside when possible

• Use your commute as decompression time

• Set realistic boundaries around work hours

• Schedule personal time just like meetings

Small, repeated choices build sustainable balance.

Delivering With Confidence

Confidence grows when life feels aligned.

When your values, habits, and responsibilities work together instead of competing with each other, work becomes purposeful instead of draining.

The goal is simple:

Work to live, not live to work.

We Are Here to Support You

If you would like support in strengthening your work-life balance, Family Counseling Service is here to help.

Family Counseling Service
3833 South Staples, Suite S203
Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Your well-being matters, for your health, your family, and your future.